Listen in as we engage in an inspiring conversation with Nasim Alikhani, a celebrated author, entrepreneur, and chef. From helping cook for large groups as a young girl in Iran to creating menus for the Met Gala and the White House, Nasim's journey is nothing short of remarkable. In this episode, we unpack her path, her passion for Persian food, and the way she has managed to pursue her dreams and establish her own roots.   We explore Nasim's new cookbook, ‘Sofreh, A Contemporary Approach to Classic Persian Cuisine’. Discover how she guides both novice and experienced home cooks through a culinary journey of Iran, from her favorite eggplant dishes to her love of all kinds of aash soup. Finally, we learn about the vision behind her restaurant, Sofreh, and how she aims to bring Persian culture to life through food. Whether you're a food enthusiast or someone interested in Persian culture, this episode is a must-listen!   This episode is sponsored by Zaffrus Saffron. Check out their unique saffron honey, perfect for gift giving or adding a delectable sweetness to your next dish!     S O F R E H (@sofreh_brooklyn) • Instagram photos and videos SOFREH   All Modern Persian Food podcast episodes can be found at: Episodes   Sign up for the email newsletter here!   Subscribe+ to the Modern Persian Food podcast on your favorite podcast player, and share this episode with a friend. Podcast production by Alvarez Audio

Join us for a compelling conversation with author Homa Dashtaki, who takes us on a journey through her nine-year process of writing her book, Yogurt & Whey: Recipes of an Iranian Immigrant Life. The dialogue is rich with insights about food as a language and a tool to make sense of our identities and our place in this world. We are mesmerized by her tale of using her culinary heritage to navigate her Iranian history and to find her sense of belonging in America.    In this episode, we also get a taste of Persian cuisine as Homa contrasts yogurt and whey, teaching us about kefir and the art of making homemade yogurt. We explore the special place of yogurt in Middle Eastern cuisine and the important role of liquid whey in these dishes. We also learn about the significance of paying homage to culture when discussing food, a theme that resonates throughout our conversation.   Lastly, we uncover the unique aspects of traditional Iranian cuisine as we learn about the process of making kashk, a form of fermented yogurt. We discuss how this practice is used in preserving milk and extending its shelf life. We also touch on the White Mustache, a yogurt company started by Homa and her father, and the original recipes inspired by traditional Persian flavors. This episode is a tasty ride through Persian cuisine, cooking methods, and the importance of food in shaping our identities. Listen in and be prepared to be inspired and, of course, hungry!   https://homadashtaki.com/yogurt-whey-book/ https://whitemoustache.com/   All Modern Persian Food podcast episodes can be found at: Episodes   Sign up for the email newsletter here!   Subscribe+ to the Modern Persian Food podcast on your favorite podcast player, and share this episode with a friend.   Podcast production by Alvarez Audio

Join us for a captivating discussion with Tabay Atkins, a prodigy and certified vegan chef. With an inspiring journey that started with yoga and transitioned to veganism, Tabay shares how these choices have shaped his life. Listen in as he talks about his mother's battle with cancer and how yoga played a crucial role in her recovery, inspiring him to become the world's youngest yoga instructor at age seven. He also shares his experiences as a plant-based nutritionist, a Reiki instructor, and a musician. We also explore the story of Beata, whose father transitioned from being a judge in Iran to owning a gas station in the US.    Moving on to Tabay's venture into the culinary world, we delve into the beginnings of his food truck, Tabay's Mindful Kitchen. Tabay's passion for cooking and veganism led him to start teaching cooking classes and making cooking videos, ultimately leading to his dream of owning a food truck. Tune in as he discusses his near-purchase of a food truck in Hawaii, his decision to start a custom-made food truck business in Orange County, and the Persian-inspired vegan dishes he serves. Don't miss this enlightening conversation as we explore the world of Persian food, veganism, and much more!   https://www.tabaysmindfulkitchen.com/ https://www.instagram.com/tabayatkins/ https://www.instagram.com/tabaysmindfulkitchen/   All Modern Persian Food podcast episodes can be found at: Episodes   Sign up for the email newsletter here!   Subscribe+ to the Modern Persian Food podcast on your favorite podcast player, and share this episode with a friend.   Podcast production by Alvarez Audio

Join us as we explore the wonderful world of Persian fast food with Mandana and Patrick Lanteigne, the dynamic duo behind Zood, a modern California-style Persian fast food spot in Orange County. Listen as we discuss their creative venture, the mouthwatering food they serve, and how they're making Persian flavors accessible to many. We also chat about the unique aspects of Persian hospitality and how they're recreating that same experience through their business. They share with us the importance of having a starting point that feels familiar when introducing a foreign cuisine, and how they're using this approach to bring Persian food to a wider audience.   In the second part of the episode, we immerse ourselves in the tantalizing world of sauces and dips, as Mandana and Patrick share their unique recipes and how they bring high-end flavors to their food. We learn about their delicious pomegranate vinaigrette, cucumber herb yogurt, and red pepper feta, and their new catering venture. The couple's passion for Persian food is evident as they discuss the influence of Persian cuisine on their cooking and their desire to make it more accessible. Join us to get an insider's glimpse into the world of Persian fast food and how Mandana and Patrick are revolutionizing the way it is enjoyed.   Website: Zood Zood (@eatzood) • Instagram photos and videos   All Modern Persian Food podcast episodes can be found at: Episodes   Sign up for the email newsletter here!   Subscribe+ to the Modern Persian Food podcast on your favorite podcast player, and share this episode with a friend.   Podcast production by Alvarez Audio

Join us on our second stop in the summer podcast series featuring Persian food trucks, stands, and fast foods as we welcome Joon Rice from the Queens Night Market in New York. Listen in as Jessica and Amir share their creative approach to serving Persian food in a way that is both accessible and appealing to a wider audience. They've crafted a unique dining experience by offering individual sized Tahdig cups and a variety of stews, making Persian cuisine enjoyable for everyone. From the Queens Night Market concept to the inspiration behind their menu, we explore everything that makes Joon Rice a standout in the food scene.   In the second half of the episode, Jessica and Amir take us behind the scenes of their delivery operations. Hear about their partnership with Shef.com and how they are spreading the flavors of Persian food far and wide. They share the success of their business, their summer market at the Queens Night Market, and their mission to connect people to their culture through food. Get ready to be inspired by their passion for Persian cuisine and their journey in the food industry.   Joon Rice website: Joon   All Modern Persian Food podcast episodes can be found at: Episodes   Sign up for the email newsletter here!   Subscribe+ to the Modern Persian Food podcast on your favorite podcast player, and share this episode with a friend. Podcast production by Alvarez Audio

Join us on this exciting journey as we kick off our new series that shines a spotlight on Persian food trucks and fast food companies. Our first pit stop is at Tahdig Tacos, a woman-owned business bringing a fusion of Persian and Mexican flavors to Southern California. Listen in as Bayan Ghahramani, the passionate entrepreneur behind this culinary phenomenon, shares her personal journey of identity and culture. Discover how her Persian heritage and Mexican influences inspired the creation of Tahdig Tacos, and how she navigates the challenges and rewards of growing up in cultural diversity.   In this discussion, we further explore the delightful world of Persian cuisine and the concept behind Tahdig Tacos. Get an insider's view on how these unique tacos are made, the various toppings that can be used, and the array of drinks that pair perfectly with them. Listen in as we discuss how these unique flavors can become a gateway for people to explore more traditional Persian dishes. Whether you're a food enthusiast or simply someone curious about Persian cuisine, this conversation is sure to leave you hungry for more.   https://www.tahdigtacos.com/ https://www.instagram.com/tahdigtacosofficial/ https://www.instagram.com/persianskater/ https://www.instagram.com/foodieskater/   All Modern Persian Food podcast episodes can be found at: Episodes   Sign up for the email newsletter here!   Subscribe+ to the Modern Persian Food podcast on your favorite podcast player, and share this episode with a friend.   Podcast production by Alvarez Audio

Can you imagine a festival that combines vibrant colors, ancient legends, and delicious food? Join us as we explore the ancient Persian summer rain festival, Tirgan. We'll share how you can dance, recite poetry, and serve mouthwatering traditional dishes like spinach soup and sholezard to celebrate this unique event. Learn the significance of the rainbow-colored wristbands, the legend of Aarash, and making wishes, all while discovering how to incorporate Tirgan into your own summer celebrations!   In the second part of the episode we answer a listener Ask The Beats question about our favorite tunes to cook to, from lively Persian dance music to sultry Mexican melodies. We even share a hilarious story about a car wash pickup line and the enchanting music of Girl From Ipanema. Don't miss this colorful and entertaining episode that will leave you hungry for culture, celebration, and scrumptious food! Take our listener survey! It’s quick and a great opportunity for you to let us know how we’re doing and what you’d like to hear in the future. Here is the link: LISTENER SURVEY! All Modern Persian Food podcast episodes can be found at: Episodes   Sign up for the email newsletter here!   Subscribe+ to the Modern Persian Food podcast on your favorite podcast player, and share this episode with a friend.   Podcast production by Alvarez Audio

Join us as we explore the world of tomatoes in Persian cuisine! From fresh salads to soups and stews, tomatoes are a staple ingredient in many delicious dishes. Discover the different forms tomatoes come in - fresh, stewed, sauce, and paste - and how they play a vital role in Persian cuisine. We'll be chatting about salad Shirazi, a refreshing Persian salad that's like a Persian salsa fresca. Plus, don't miss our discussion on grilling tomatoes - skewered and whole - on the barbecue or stovetop. And also our favorite layered rice dishes and khoreshes with tomato as one of the key ingredients.    In the second part of the episode, we share our favorite cooking shortcuts and efficiency tips in the “Ask the Beats” segment. Learn how to save time with prepped ingredients like ground walnuts and cooked beets, as well as using ready-made Jarred khoresh. We also discuss the convenience of canned beans and a rice cooker to speed up the cooking process. Listen in to learn more about these time-saving hacks and how they can help you create delicious Persian dishes with ease. Take our listener survey! It’s quick and a great opportunity for you to let us know how we’re doing and what you’d like to hear in the future. Here is the link: LISTENER SURVEY! All Modern Persian Food podcast episodes can be found at: Episodes   Sign up for the email newsletter here!   Subscribe+ to the Modern Persian Food podcast on your favorite podcast player, and share this episode with a friend.   Podcast production by Alvarez Audio

Get ready to tantalize your taste buds as we bring you the exquisite flavors of Persian grilled corn, also known as Balal. Discover how the saltwater dipping creates a delightful mild salty taste, while the smoky flavor comes from the beautiful charring on the corn. We're excited to share our memories of enjoying it both in Iran and the US and guide you through our very own recipe for this mouthwatering dish. Learn how to make the perfect saltwater bath and master the grilling techniques to achieve that authentic taste that your summer barbecue has been missing!    In this week’s Ask the Beats we explore our favorite go-to Persian dishes for our families, from a comforting yellow split pea stew Gheymeh to Beata’s easy Halim, made with rotisserie chicken and oats. Don't forget to send us your questions to be featured on a future episode!  Take our listener survey! It’s quick and a great opportunity for you to let us know how we’re doing and what you’d like to hear in the future. Here is the link: LISTENER SURVEY! All Modern Persian Food podcast episodes can be found at: Episodes   Sign up for the email newsletter here!   Subscribe+ to the Modern Persian Food podcast on your favorite podcast player, and share this episode with a friend. Podcast production by Alvarez Audio

Have you ever bitten into a perfectly grilled, saffron and lemon-infused chicken kabob and wondered, "How can I make this at home?" That's exactly what we'll be exploring today, as we share the secrets behind the mouthwatering flavors of joojeh kabob. Discover how the perfect marinade with ingredients like saffron, lemon juice, onion, and salt not only adds incredible taste, but also tenderizes the chicken for that melt-in-your-mouth experience. Plus, learn about the etymology of "joojeh," which means young chicken or chick, and how it's become a term of endearment for us.   But that's not all! We also answer a listener's Ask The Beats question about the Gol Getter cocktail, a Persian-inspired creation that you can enjoy with or without alcohol. Find out the essential ingredients and how to mix them together for a refreshing drink that's perfect for summer. We even share a variation using Quince Jam instead of Rose Jam! So join us on this culinary adventure, and don't forget to reach out with your questions or stories – we'd love to hear from you! Take our listener survey! It’s quick and a great opportunity for you to let us know how we’re doing and what you’d like to hear in the future. Here is the link: LISTENER SURVEY! All Modern Persian Food podcast episodes can be found at: Episodes   Sign up for the email newsletter here!   Subscribe+ to the Modern Persian Food podcast on your favorite podcast player, and share this episode with a friend.   Podcast production by Alvarez Audio